ART FRAMING
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Selecting a Matte
When deciding on a matte, choose a color that compliments the art. Try and match your matte color to a particular color within the work of art. Be careful not to choose a color that will distract from the art. Your matte should compliment...not over-power it. Ask your framer to use acid free matting and backing when framing limited edition prints. This will insure a longer life of the print. A 2" to 2.5" matte should be sufficient for most prints. If you want a more dramatic look, try a 3" to 4" matte. Other options are to have a double or triple matte. This will allow you to use more than one color matte to compliment the art. Choosing a Frame Don't be intimidated by the selection of available frames. Most galleries have a large wall dedicated to displaying all the various types of mouldings. First, Look at your art. Get a feel for the overall mood of the piece. Secondly, think about where you are going to hang it. If you are striving for a contemporary look, choose a moulding that is sleek and glossy. For a more classic, Victorian, or Renaissance feel, select a moulding that is heavy in ornamentation...maybe in gold. Make sure the width of the moulding you choose compliments the art. Usually the larger the art, the larger the moulding should be. Protective Framing Limited edition prints should not be altered (marked on, folded or cropped) in any way. Alterations made will reduce the value of the print. When framing a limited edition print, all materials that touch the print should be acid free. This will include the matting and backing. Acid free matting and backing will ensure that the print does not yellow or discolor over time. A limited edition print should not be heat mounted to its backing board. Make sure the framer attaches the artwork to its backing with an archival tape or product. Glass? or No Glass? Consider where you're going to hang the art when choosing glass. All art prints should be framed under glass. It serves as a way to protect the work. Regular glass is most commonly chosen, but if you are hanging a work of art in an area that receives direct sunlight (not highly reccommended), then choose "glare-free" glass. It will cut down on the reflection. Original oil and acrylic paintings on canvas do not require glass. The canvas needs to breathe with the changes in humidity. Watercolor and pastel works can and should be be framed beneath glass. |